Moscow: The Kremlin on Thursday 'respectfully' disputed US President Donald Trump's recent remarks on the Soviet Union playing a supportive role during World War II. On Wednesday, Trump stated on his social media platform Truth Social that no one should forget how Russia 'helped us' win World War II, claiming that the Soviet Union lost almost 60 million people during this period-a figure considered exaggerated by historical accounts. Historians indicate that the Soviet Union lost about 27 million people, significantly more than any other country. Trump is known for using hyperbole with figures.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump's remarks came a day after he suggested additional sanctions on Russia are "likely" if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not engage in negotiations to end its war on Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded to Trump's comments, stating that the topic is one where disagreement is possible, albeit with respect towards President Trump. He highlighted the geographical distance between America and Europe, noting that the theater of operations and the massive loss of life occurred on a different continent for America.
Peskov emphasized that the Soviet Union bore the "main burden" and "heaviest price" in the fight against fascism during the conflict, known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War. He acknowledged America's contributions but noted that America always approaches such matters from a business perspective. Peskov reflected on the current situation in Ukraine, maintaining that Russia would never forget American assistance during World War II, but pointed out discrepancies in the figures shared by Trump concerning Soviet losses.
Further, Peskov remarked that Trump's comments on imposing additional sanctions if a resolution on Ukraine is not reached are not new to Russia. He suggested that the US president frequently resorted to sanctions during his first term. Since the Ukraine war began in February 2022, the US has enforced multiple sanctions on Russia, with the restrictions becoming increasingly severe as the conflict continues beyond initial expectations.
Peskov concluded by stating that the Kremlin is closely observing Washington's rhetoric towards Moscow. He underscored Russia's readiness for respectful dialogue between Trump and Putin, similar to what occurred during Trump's first term in office from 2017 to 2021.